Big Momentum at John Howell Park — And What’s Next
If you’ve met neighbors at the playground, sat under the shade during a festival or strolled along the winding paths, you know John Howell Park is central to our neighborhood. Thanks to the support of neighbors across every corner of VaHi, we’re closer than ever to giving it the upgrades it deserves — a safer, more accessible playground and greenspace.
$643,000 Raised — Nearly 70% of the Way There
Because of neighbors like you, Friends of John Howell Park has raised $643,000 — nearly 70% of our total goal.
That includes:
- 43 Founding Member families
- Individual community donations
- Funding from the City of Atlanta
- A generous grant from Park Pride
This milestone means real momentum. We’re no longer imagining what this renovation could be — we’re actively moving it forward.
What’s Happening Now
The behind-the-scenes work (the less glamorous but very necessary part) is in full swing.
Right now, we are:
- Finalizing the site plan
- Working through project details with contractors
- Moving through the permitting process
- Pursuing additional grant funding — especially for ADA accessibility
- Exploring city funding opportunities
Every one of these steps brings us closer to construction.
If you have experience with grant writing, foundation connections, or corporate sponsorships, we would love to connect: friendsofjohnhowellpark@gmail.com.
Join Us: Community Kick-Off on March 29
On Sunday, March 29 from 3–5pm, we’re hosting a Community Kick-Off at the playground at John Howell Park.
Stop by after the neighborhood yard sales for:
- A casual play date
- A look at the latest site plans
- Q&A about the renovation
- Ways to get involved
Parents, kids, grandparents, neighbors, and furry friends — if you use this park, you’re invited.
Neighborhood Spirit in Action
We’re especially excited that Troop VaHi 26047 is donating their Girl Scout cookie earnings to the park renovation. Seeing kids invest in the playground they’ll use is exactly the kind of community energy that fuels this project.
Cookie season runs through March 31 — support them if you need a Thin Mints refill.
Help Us Close the Gap
We’re 70% of the way there. Now we need to finish strong.
Founding Member gifts ($1,000+) include park recognition, but truly, every contribution moves us closer to breaking ground. Many families are giving through DAFs or employer match programs (EIN: 26-4175136).
If this park matters to you, now is the time to help close the gap.
Great parks make great neighborhoods — and we’re building something that will serve Virginia-Highland families for years to come.
Thank you for being part of it.
— Friends of John Howell Park
Ready to get involved? You can give online, mail a check or give through your DAF or employer match program using EIN: 26-4175136. Have questions? Reach out at friendsofjohnhowellpark@gmail.com.
Friends of John Howell Park, LLC
EIN: 26-4175136
1190 N. Highland Ave. #8401
Atlanta GA 3030
friendsofjohnhowellpark.org